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What is the Purpose of our Organization

Founded in 2000, South Sound Partners for Philanthropy is a coalition of over 40 nonprofit organizations dedicated to advancing philanthropy in the South Sound region. By working together, they raise awareness of local needs and ensure that charitable contributions and volunteer efforts are used effectively to support the community’s health, education, arts, and social services.

Membership is open to any nonprofit organization.  

South Sound Partners provides regular education and training sessions to both members and the community at large so new and innovative ideas are brought to the forefront. In addition, education is provided to donors regarding planned giving and estate planning.

Board Member Testimonials

“Years ago, as a first-time fundraiser, Partners was a huge part of my professional development and networking in our community. I continue to find Partners valuable with opportunities to connect with others going through the same challenges in our profession and mentoring new fundraising professionals. I love Partners and all those involved in the work.” Amber Wetzel

Membership Meeting | May 7 | Hybrid

May Membership Meeting: 10 Things Every Board Member Should Know – But Often Don’t

Nonprofit board members usually fall into two camps 1) Those who have served on a nonprofit board previously 2) Those who have not.

The surprising thing is….both groups usually have the same level of understanding of the roles and responsibilities of an effective nonprofit board.! According to Leading with Intent: A National Index of Nonprofit Board Practices 2015, nonprofit boards across the country are earning B-minuses for their performance. Of course, you want your organization to have an A+ board but what does an A+ board look like?

Too often board members think that their experience on one nonprofit board adequately prepares them for their next board tenure and so they resist any board training. However, board members who do not adequately understand their role are more likely to venture into areas that are not their responsibility. Right now, we are seeing a surge in board members that are venturing into areas of staff supervision and evaluation which is forbidden territory.

Join Mary Beth Harrington to discuss the 10 things that every board member should know, but often does not and more importantly, how to get your board members to be more open to the idea of hosting a board training.

Oh, and the answer to what an A+ board looks like? I always say the board that has a waiting list of folks who want to join!

Register Here

Join us for our new meeting format!

Members have told us that making connections with other nonprofit professionals is one of the best things about Partners. With busy schedules, it can be hard to make time for those casual conversations that help us really connect with each other and nurture us both professionally and personally. 

We’ve added an optional social time before each meeting. Whether you’re looking to expand your professional network or simply enjoy a cup of coffee with like-minded individuals, this is a great time to connect in a relaxed and informal setting. 

  • 8:30 – 9:00am: Coffee and informal networking (in person only)  
  • 9:00 – 10:00am: Membership Meeting. Brief business items followed by featured program
  • 10:00 – 10:15am: Optional member announcements (upcoming events, job announcements, etc.)

Membership Meetings are the 1st Wednesday of each month. If you are not a member and are interested in attending, please email info@celebrategiving.org.

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